History of Grays Thurrock

Grays Thurrock Snippets

When researching for this website we often find a little snippet of information on a location or subject which may be of interest. Some are quirky, some show that there is nothing new in this world, and some about the attitudes and morals of the time. [index to snippets] Here is one for Grays Thurrock about the police failing to get their men.

The Essex Standard 13 July 1864

An Irish Row at Grays
On the 28th ult. a faction fight took place between a number of Irish labourers, employed on the farm of Mr Cook of Grays Thurrock. After the fight one of the men obtained a warrant against four of the rival party, and inspector Rutledge and three police officers proceeded to Grays to execute it.

The moment, however, they got to the field where the men were at work they were assailed by about 150 of the gang, in order to prevent their companions being taken.

A desperate struggle took place between the police and the workmen, in which the former were much bruised and knocked about, but eventually succeeded in capturing one of the men, and the others, it is believed, have since absconded.

[End of article]

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